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The Quran => Q&As with Joseph Islam - Information Only => Topic started by: Reader Questions on March 16, 2013, 07:26:06 AM

Title: Is the 'Light' in verse 5:15-16 Referring to Prophet Muhammad?
Post by: Reader Questions on March 16, 2013, 07:26:06 AM

Peace brother Joseph,

Is the 'light' in verse 5:15-16 referring to Prophet Muhammad? If not, what does it mean?

Thanks and regards

Title: Re: Is the 'Light' in verse 5:15-16 Referring to Prophet Muhammad?
Post by: Joseph Islam on March 16, 2013, 07:33:53 AM

May peace be with you.

The Quran describes itself as guidance (2:2) and a manifest / clear light 'nura-mubeen' (4:174). Therefore, ‘nur’ (light) in the context of verses 5:15-16 is primarily a reference to the Scripture (revelations) that guides one from darkness into light.

Any interpretation to suggest the Prophet in his capacity as a ‘Prophet / Messenger’ of God as 'light' would be in my humble view, a secondary interpretation. Please also see verse 7:157, where 'nur' (light) has been described as something that has been sent down with the Prophet (ma'ahu), which arguably refers to the Divine guidance.

Even previous Scriptures such as the Torah (5:44) as well as the Injeel (5:46) are described as guidance and light (nur). 

Therefore, in the same way, Prophets Moses, Aaron and Jesus would only be considered light bearing ‘Prophets and messengers’ (those that bring one from darkness into light) as a secondary interpretation.

I hope that helps, God willing.
Joseph.